panikos stavrou — Allegations of bribery against deputy police chief Panikos Stavrou have resurfaced, as social media personality Ioanna Fotiou, known as Annie Alexui, claims to possess video evidence related to the accusations. Fotiou published extracts from an investigator’s sworn statement that was presented to the Nicosia district court, reigniting interest in a decade-old case.
The case revolves around the late Alexis Mavromichalis, who was also known as ‘Alexui’ and had a close personal relationship with Fotiou. The sworn affidavit includes testimony from a witness asserting that individuals engaged in criminal activities maintained connections within the police through intermediaries who could facilitate their operations.
One particular conversation, referenced in the affidavit, allegedly mentioned contacting “Panikos” regarding a specific matter. The witness claimed, “the good thing is we have people in the drug unit who help us, and once you pay, your job gets done.” This statement points to a troubling network of complicity involving the police.
During the time Stavrou served in the drug squad (Ykan), which he led as deputy head from 2013 until March 2018, the affidavit records allegations that he was captured on video receiving a briefcase filled with money from associates. According to the witness, this incriminating footage was stored on a USB device that was subsequently hidden within a lift shaft.
Though the police later recovered the USB during their investigation, it was reportedly damaged beyond retrieval. As a result, the alleged video evidence has not yet been made public, although Fotiou indicated on social media that she might release it soon.
As of this publication, no footage has been disclosed. Local media have reported that the allegations involving Stavrou had previously come under scrutiny by the police’s internal affairs service, although the investigation did not yield any evidence of criminal wrongdoing, and no charges were substantiated against him.
The witness cited in the affidavit has also provided testimony in an unrelated narcotics case, which resulted in the conviction of two individuals. In addition to his role as deputy chief, Stavrou currently serves on the gaming and casino licensing authority following cabinet approval.
